retimer vs switch

[AKupc1]

Hello! 
We have a server R2224WFTZS (moboS2600WFT) and we need to connect extra 4 4x nvme u.2 drives. 

What we need 4-Port PCIe Gen3 x16 Retimer AIC AXXP3RTX16040 or 4-Port PCIe Gen3 x8 Switch AIC AXXP3SWX08040 ? And which difference between retimer and switch?

[Emeth_O_Intel]

Hello AKupc1, 

Thank you for contacting Intel Community Support.

I was reviewing your thread and I would like to inform you the following details: 

The limitation of the Switch (AXXP3SWX08040) is going to be related to the bandwidth, however, the Retimer (AXXP3RTX16040) does not have this limitation and the Retimer will provide you better performance of the disks. 

I would like to know if you can provide me with more details about the disks you would like to use, and also more information about the implementation you would like to accomplish in order to provide you the most accurate information and suggest you with the most exact recommendations for your system. 

I will be waiting for your outcome in order to proceed with the next step. 

Best regards, 

Emeth O.

Intel Server Specialist. 

[AKupc1 · Accepted solution]

Thanks! We will use the retimer.

And what a use case for pci e switch (AXXP3SWX08040)? if it have lower bandwidth and higher cost.

[Emeth_O_Intel]

Hello AKupc1,

Thank you for replying back.

Can you please provide us with more details about how many disks are planning to use?

For instance, if you are going to use 24 disks our best recommendation will be the switch card because using the Retimer the system will require more PCIe Lanes.

Please provide us the information requested in order to provide you the most accurate information and recommendation.

Regards,

Emeth O.

Intel Server Specialist.

[AKupc1]

Thank you!